September 7, 2010

Yu-u

137 Flinders Lane
Melbourne, VIC 3000

(enter from Oliver Lane)
(03) 9639 7073Food: Japanese, Set Lunch Box

I haven't done a post on Japanese food in a while, so there is no better way to break the drought than with a visit to the iconic and delightful Yu-U. Restaurant critics and food bloggers alike have described this tiny haven as one of Melbourne's best hidden gems, with its underground basement location, zen-like ambience and sleek concrete and hardwood fixtures. The eatery's front entrance is also notoriously hard to find - just look out for a steel, rich-maroon rose coloured door, blemished with messy black graffiti. A small, framed sign to the right of it reads "Yu-U" in Japanese.

Yu-U's reputable set lunches are a steal at $18, served on a tray with your choice of main, alongside the day's 'small dish', a steaming hot bowl of miso soup, rice, pickled vegetables, condiments, a piece of fresh fruit and a pot of earthy Japanese green tea. At night, it is also absolutely necessary to make a reservation, with tables usually booked out from at least a week in advance. However, all this fuss really is worth the effort - the food is unpretentious, yet mind-blowing, reinforcing classic Japanese flavours with a delicate, modern twist.

The last time I dined here was before I bought my new camera, so please excuse the slightly blurred images taken in the restaurant's dimly-lit setting.

No comments:

About Me

I have a crazy passion about all things food - fascinated by the ingredients that bring a beautiful dish together and the evolving world of contemporary dining. Join my adventures as I expand my knowledge and skills through cooking, reading and eating out about town! Thanks for stopping by, feel free to leave a comment :)